Moving to a care home is a big step. Among all the preparations, one of the most important things to think about is how to set up the room you or your loved ones will live in. It’s not just about making it look nice; it’s about making it feel like home and being good for the health and happiness of its occupants.
In this article, we will talk about some key considerations and tips for you to set up a new room in a care home. We will cover topics including personalization, accessibility, and safety. Let’s get into it.
Getting to Know Your New Room
Every room in a care home is different. So, it’s a good idea to find out the size and layout of the room before you start setting it up. An academic study in 2018 found that how a room is set up can make a big difference in how happy and healthy people feel. So, think about where the windows, doors and furniture will be. This will help you decide where to put essential belongings and any special equipment required.
Getting the layout right in your aged care room means you can make it look liveable and work well for your needs. Think about where to put your furniture, make sure there’s space for any appliances or ornaments that you might want, and ensure it’s easy to move around in the room. This way, your room will be cosy and practical to boost your overall comfort and happiness.
The following shows some things to think about when setting up a care home room.
Mobility Matters
Moving around the room should be easy and safe, especially for those using aids such as walkers or wheelchairs. Make sure there’s plenty of space to walk and no objects in the way that could cause trips or falls. Clear pathways are crucial for safety and ease of movement.
Furniture Placement: When setting up the room, think about the best spots for each piece of furniture. Where would you like the bed to be? Near the window for morning sunlight or away from it for a quieter sleep? Chairs and tables should be at the right height and distance for convenience, whether it’s for dining, writing, or placing personal items. The goal is to arrange everything in a way that feels right for the resident, maximises comfort, and makes the best use of available space.
Personal Corners: Everyone needs a private spot for relaxation or hobbies. Consider setting up a designated area with a reading nook or a craft corner. These personal corners not only provide relaxation but also give a sense of individuality to the room.
Tech and Tools: If you have special equipment that helps you, like a video phone or other devices that facilitate independent living, make sure there’s a suitable place for it in your room. It should be easy to reach and use. Our Konnekt Videophone or Captioning Videophone product, for example, can be placed on a sturdy surface or mounted on a wall for easy access. Consider positioning it in a central location that allows for comfortable viewing and efficient communication with loved ones or healthcare professionals.
Tips for Personalising the Room
Personalising the room is an opportunity to surround the resident with items that bring joy and a sense of familiarity. Here are a few tips for how to personalise the room:
- Decorate with meaningful items: Hang up favourite photos, art, or keepsakes that remind you or your loved ones of good times. These can make the room feel cosy and give the residents and visitors something to chat about.
- Bring in familiar scents: Think about lighting a candle, using some essential oils, or potpourri that reminds you of home. Familiar scents can make a place feel more relaxing.
- Choose calming colours: Choose gentle and calming colours for things like bed sheets, curtains, and walls. Soft colours or light shades can make the room feel peaceful and help you relax.
Making an aged care room feel personal is a special journey that helps residents feel at home and content. Creating a personal touch in the room can significantly reduce feelings of homesickness or anxiety. This welcoming environment turns into a safe haven for reliving cherished memories and connecting with loved ones, enriching the overall living experience.
How to Organise Belongings for Easy Accessibility
Keeping things tidy and in their place makes it simpler to find what’s needed and keeps the room looking neat. Here are some easy-to-follow ideas to help keep everything in order:
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- Boxes and Baskets: Think about using differently-sized containers like bins, baskets or boxes. They’re great for sorting and storing things such as books, magazines and personal items. Labels can be a game-changer, helping identify contents at a glance.
- Special Spots for Special Things: It’s a good idea to have a spot for everything. For example, a table next to the bed can hold important things like glasses, pills or hearing aids. This way, they’re always close by and easy to find.
- Consider Assistive Technology: Some tools can make daily tasks easier. Things like bars to hold onto, tools to help pick up items, and easy communication tools like the Konnekt Videophone and Captioning Videophone. Communication aids help foster independent living and provide the opportunity for easy social connection with families.
Also, regularly decluttering and organising enhances mental well-being and ensures a smooth daily routine. By following these simple steps, the room can be both organised and functional, making daily routines smoother and more enjoyable.
Let’s Talk About Safety
Making a room feel like home while also being safe is super important, especially in an aged-care setting. Here are some things to think about to make that happen:
- Bright and Safe: Good lighting can make a big difference. It’s not just about seeing clearly, but also about feeling good. Natural sunlight is therapeutic, but also think about adding some lamps or bright overhead lights. This can help avoid any trips or falls.
- Stay Steady: Floors can be slippery! Using mats or rugs that don’t slide around is a smart move. If there are any carpets or rugs that move easily, it’s a good idea to stick them down or use special non-slip underlays.
- Always Connected: Sometimes, there might be a need to call for help or just chat with family. Having a good communication system in place is key. There are special phones, such as the Konnekt Videophone, that even answer by themselves if needed. This means staying in touch is just a button away.
In aged care facilities, the way a room is set up plays a big role in the safety and well-being of residents. According to research, the physical environment, including how a room is arranged, can directly influence mental health and the safety of elderly residents. When rooms aren’t thoughtfully designed, it can lead to increased risks, such as accidents and falls. Ensuring a proper room arrangement and design is therefore crucial for the well-being of those in care.
Regular safety checks and updates to the room setup are vital. Caregivers and family members play a pivotal role in this. Ensuring easy access to assistive technologies will help the resident maintain peace of mind and enjoy a greater sense of security.
Conclusion
Moving into a care home means setting up a space that’s both cosy and practical. It’s a blend of understanding the room’s dynamics, infusing personal elements, and ensuring safety.
At Konnekt, we pride ourselves on offering more than just products. We provide a helping hand every step of the way. Our dedicated team is passionate about ensuring that our Konnekt Videophone and Captioning Videophone are set up perfectly for you or your loved ones, making the move to an aged care home smooth and stress-free. Your comfort is our priority.
If there’s ever a question or a need for some guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re not just here to sell; we’re here to support. Experience the Konnekt difference and let us make the transition as effortless as possible. We’re eager to assist and just a call away.
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References:
“Color Psychology: Does It Affect How You Feel?“, Kendra Cherry, MSEd.
“Devices That Help the Elderly Living at Home“, Konnekt.
“Smells Ring Bells: How Smell Triggers Memories and Emotions“, Jordan Gaines Lewis, Ph.D.
“Effect of the Physical Environment on Health and Well-Being of Nursing Homes Residents: A Scoping Review“, Journal of the American Medical Directors Association.